Cozumel is a hot destination for regular island travelers and spring break flings alike. Arguably the largest Caribbean island off of the coast of Mexico, Cozumel’s white sandy beaches and sparkling aquamarine waters will call out to you – but there’s more to the city than simple sunbathing and partying.

The Best Time to Visit Cozumel

Despite its location close to the equator, the temperatures in Cozumel tend to fluctuate. Summer days and nights are hot and the humidity is close to unbearable. The winter months can be very cold, with temperatures dropping well into the 60’s.

We don’t recommend visiting during the spring break months if you’re looking for a quiet or relaxing vacation. The month of March, sometimes into April, usually finds the island packed with college students looking to party day and night. While there are a few quieter sections on the island, you’re better off waiting until later in the spring to visit.

Sights to See in Cozumel

San Gervasion is one of the largest surviving archaeological sites in Cozumel. Once the home of the Mayans and Toltecs this site was at one point the main place where worshipers would gather to honor the goddess known as Ixchel. The buildings here were occupied well into the 1500’s and each building within the archaeological site is labeled so that English, Spanish, and Mayan visitors alike can identify these historic treasures.

The Museo de la Isla de Cozumel displays artifacts and artistic pieces outlining the cultural history of the city. Here you’ll learn about animal species specific to the island, the ecology of the coral reef, and the evolution of the island itself.

Punta Molas Fara is the lighthouse at the northernmost tip of the island. Most guided tours will take you past the jagged shores where the lighthouse is located as well as to a number of other Mayan sites. Unfortunately, the 2005 hurricane, Wilma, damaged many of the roads towards the lighthouse so you may or may not be able to get an up close look.

At the opposite end of the island you’ll find the Parque Punta Sur, a 247-acre national wildlife refuge serving the needs of a number of endangered species. Within the park you’ll encounter the Faro de Celarain, a navigational museum, as well as Laguna Colombia and Laguna Chunchacaab, which are both observation spots where visitors can watch native birds and crocodiles.

San Miguel is known as the only town on the island of Cozumel. The ocean breeze in this tiny island destination is refreshing, but the further you get from the water the more authentic your experiences will be. The waterfront is full of tourist attractions and shops, but the inner streets are full of authentic restaurants and shops that have been owned by local families for generations.

Exploring Cozumel’s Beaches

Cozumel is, of course, littered with beach goers, but there are a few sandy spots that are a bit more appealing than others. Some are free, some cost a few dollars, and all will give you access to some of the clearest waters you’ll ever encounter.

Paradise Beach, for example, touts a $9 admission fee. Visitors have access to lounge chairs as well as a trampoline, a climbing wall, and tons of water sport equipment. It’s a small price to pay for some fun and adventure in the sand, but we recommend bringing your own food unless you want to pay an arm and a leg.

Uvas is a spectacular beach with Miami style flair. Most of the visitors here come from cruise ships, but the facilities off the beach are accommodating and plentiful. One of the local dive shops will gladly rent you a kayak with a see-through bottom – perfect for exploring the marine life beneath you as you paddle.

Punta Morena is a hot destination for beach goers in love with the surf. While lounging on the beach you’ll get a chance to see some of the area’s avid surfers and boogie-board fans in action. For a small price you can buy a hammock from a road-side vendor. Those with a penchant for outdoor activities might enjoy camping here as well.

The beach at Playa Palancar is usually very quiet, mostly because of its secluded location far south of the main resort strip. The road to this beach is in shoddy condition, but the trip is well worth the time and effort. There are plenty of tourist accommodations here, ranging from water equipment to food vendors, but you’ll definitely feel like you’ve found a special place far from the average tourist trap.

While visiting Cozumel you’ll have the opportunity to explore some of the island’s historic sites, lounge on the beaches, and even party the night away at some of the most popular resort nightclubs. No matter where you end up, we’re positive you’ll have a relaxing vacation you’ll never forget.

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